Puaikura claim Knockout Cup title

Puaikura players and management with the coveted Knockout Cup trophy after their 2-1 win over Takuvaine on Saturday at CIFA Complex in Matavera. 17121715

The Puaikura premier men’s team hoisted the 2017 Knockout Cup title after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Takuvaine at the CIFA Complex in Matavera on Saturday.

The fast-paced match featured plenty of chances for both clubs, but it was Conroy Tiputoa’s goal that put Puaikura ahead.

It took Puaikura just four minutes to get in front when Pekay Edwards got the ball on the wing, and curled in a cross to an unmarked William Napa who headed the ball into the back of the net.

Puaikura continued to create chances from there on and broke through again just one minute later.

Dwayne Tiputoa, provided the assist for Conroy Tiputoa to double their advantage.

However, it was not all one-way battle and the lively Peni Kitiona saw an effort hit the crossbar.

Takuvaine had plenty of chances, but the side was unable to get into the scoreboard.

Just past the halfway mark, Daniel Taokia found himself in space on the edge of the 18-yard box, but his shot was saved by Terence Maruariki.

Takuvaine trailed 0-2 at the break.

In front of a respectable crowd, the second half showed a lot more action.

The shift in momentum was apparent in the second half, with Takuvaine starting to dominate possession and test Puaikura’s defence.

Kitiona scored early in the second half, sending a long-range kick past the Puaikura goalkeeper and into the top right corner.

The men from the Happy Valley almost found a way back into the game late in the second half when Kitiona squandered his spot kick high over the crossbar. The side never gave up and pushed on, but Puaikura withstood a late charge to win the 2017 Knockout Cup title.

In the senior women’s division, Tupapa Maraerenga avenged their Round Cup competition defeat by winning the knockout cup final over Titikaveka 3-1.

The women’s final was a battle between two skilled teams.

Titikaveka entered into the final with a chance to win the first-ever trophy for their club.

Tupapa Maraerenga proved they were serious 15 minutes into the game when Moeroa Harmon scored from close range.

The two teams traded attack through the entire match, but in the second half Tupapa Maraerenga were unstoppable, breaking through the defence to score two more goals, putting the game beyond doubt.

In the U17 men’s division, there was an avalanche of goals on Wednesday last week, with Nikao Sokattak emerging the 2017 Knockout Cup winners 5-3.